Prolific SF And Peninsula Burglary Suspect Arrested

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) – San Francisco and Peninsula police have arrested a man they believe is responsible for dozens of burglaries over the past 18 months.

Albert Hernandez Jr., 44, was arrested on March 13th after he came out of a San Bruno home that he had allegedly just burglarized. The arrest came after days of surveillance by detectives.

Hernandez was dubbed the “Blue Bar Burglar,” because they say he used a blue prying bar to break into homes.

Thomas Maguire of the San Francisco Police Department said that officers managed to obtain 22 shopping bags of evidence when they raided two of the places Hernandez is known to live.

KCBS’ Bob Melrose Reports:

“We believe that he is one of the most prolific burglars around in years, based on the fact that in 2005 alone when that high-profile tunnel entry series was going on, he was arrested and was the prime suspect in that,” said Maguire.

“We believe that in that case he had property from about 35 different burglaries at the time.”

Police said that Hernandez is responsible not only for burglaries in the city, but also in South San Francisco, San Bruno, Pacifica and Milbrae as well. He is a candidate for the three strikes law if convicted.

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